In an interview with Sight & Sound magazine, David Lynch revealed that he was diagnosed with emphysema due to a lifetime of continuous smoking and as a result must remain “housebound” to avoid colds, COVID-19 and other illnesses. Lynch added that he could direct films “from a distance” but that he “wouldn't enjoy it as much”. After speculation that this meant the longtime creative would be retiring, Lynch released an official statement today clarifying that this is not the case.
“Yes, I have emphysema from years of smoking,” Lynch wrote in his statement. “I have to say that I really enjoyed smoking and I really like tobacco – the smell of it, lighting cigarettes, smoking – but there is a price for this pleasure and the price for me is emphysema. I have now quit smoking for over two years. I recently had a lot of tests and the good news is that I am in great shape except for emphysema. I am full of happiness and will never retire. I want you all to know that I really appreciate your concern.”
The home commitment hasn't limited Lynch's creativity in the past. During the pandemic, he launched the 'What's David working on today?' video series and daily weather reports on YouTube. In recent years he has also created short films Fire (Pożar) and WHAT DID JACK DO?directed a music video for Donovan and released his new collaborative album Cellophane memories with Chrystabell. Leeds' latest feature film, Inland Empirereleased in 2006.
Revisit Pitchfork's 2012 interview with David Lynch.
